The MeidasTouch Podcast Summary: "Fox News Loses Control on Live TV as Trump Gets Worse"

Release Date: May 8, 2025

In this compelling episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve deep into the tumultuous dynamics between Fox News and the current political landscape, particularly focusing on former President Donald Trump's evolving role. Titled "Fox News Loses Control on Live TV as Trump Gets Worse," the episode unpacks the intricate interplay between media narratives, political accountability, and economic policies, all while maintaining the signature blend of brotherly banter and sharp political insight that has garnered the MeidasTouch Network its vast following.

1. Media Accountability and Fox News' Role

The episode kicks off with a critical examination of Fox News, portraying the network as a "state regime media." Ben Shapiro leads the charge, addressing Fox News hosts' portrayal of the current administration's handling of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other agencies.

At [00:47], Shapiro labels Fox hosts as part of a "state regime media," highlighting their failure to responsibly report on governmental issues. He cites a specific instance where Fox hosts, including Jesse Waters, allegedly promote dangerous expansionist ideologies, such as "stealing land" in the name of American expansionism. Shapiro vehemently criticizes this stance, calling it "pathetic" and "vile," and condemns the normalization of such rhetoric on mainstream media platforms.

2. Government Accountability and Dr. Fauci

The discussion shifts to governmental accountability, particularly focusing on Dr. Anthony Fauci's actions during the pandemic. At [02:52], Kevin Hassett, Trump's national economic adviser, accuses Fauci of lying, specifically over the definition of "gain of function" research. This leads to a broader conversation about the need for accountability for public officials.

Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna responds assertively at [03:21], expressing her intent to initiate a criminal referral for Fauci's actions. She emphasizes the necessity of Attorney General Pam Bondi to take decisive action, stating, "I will look at doing a criminal referral for those statements." Luna underscores the importance of moving beyond mere "strongly worded letters" to actual legal consequences, highlighting the frustration among constituents for tangible action against perceived misconduct.

3. Economic Policies and Federal Reserve Critique

Economic discourse takes center stage as the conversation navigates through critiques of current economic policies and the Federal Reserve's role. Kevin Hassett attempts to reassure listeners about economic stability, claiming at [04:11], "There are still plenty of things on the shelves" despite previous shipping delays. He attributes economic resilience to policies aimed at "shoring jobs and production," praising former President Trump's approach to economic management.

Ben Shapiro counters this optimism by attacking Hassett's credibility. At [04:57], Shapiro labels Hassett as an "idiot" and accuses him of being perpetually wrong about economic forecasts, referencing the failed predictions before the dot-com bubble burst in 2000. This back-and-forth underscores the polarized views on economic management and the effectiveness of governmental policies.

Further critique emerges when Hassett challenges Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell at [09:16], suggesting political motivations behind economic decisions. Shapiro swiftly dismantles Hassett's arguments, highlighting inconsistencies and perceived political bias within economic modeling and policy implementation.

4. Expansionism and "Manifest Destiny"

A fascinating segment delves into the concept of American expansionism, with both Ben Shapiro and Kevin Hassett engaging in a spirited debate. Shapiro introduces the idea of "manifest destiny" at [01:26], referring to historical U.S. expansions via purchase or force. The conversation progresses towards the contemporary suggestion of acquiring Greenland, sparking a discussion on national survival and ethical implications.

Hassett supports the notion, suggesting that presidents from both parties should secure Greenland "by any means necessary" for national survival at [01:56]. Shapiro challenges this outlook, questioning the moral and practical aspects of such territorial expansions, and highlighting the potential risks and international repercussions.

5. Misrepresentation in Media: The USA Fencing Incident

The podcast addresses media misrepresentation, focusing on a specific incident involving the United States Fencing Association. At [07:05], Ben Shapiro critiques Fox News' coverage of congressional hearings where a photograph was manipulated to portray a fencer giving the middle finger. Shapiro condemns this distortion, emphasizing the broader issue of media integrity and the detrimental effects of biased reporting.

This incident serves as a case study for the hosts, illustrating how media outlets can distort facts to fit particular narratives, thereby misleading the public and undermining trust in both the media and governmental institutions.

6. SNAP Benefits and Budget Cuts

Anna Paulina Luna returns to address the proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), highlighting the severe impact on beneficiaries. At [14:43], Luna criticizes the plan to cut $220 billion from SNAP, poignantly stating, "I cannot wait until voters have an opportunity to say, you took food out of my mouth." She paints a stark picture of how these budget cuts will exacerbate food insecurity and homelessness, urging immediate legislative action to halt these detrimental measures.

7. Infrastructure and FAA Accountability

Laura Ingraham's segment at [15:46] shifts focus to infrastructure woes, specifically the FAA's technical shortcomings leading to significant aircraft delays. She underscores the lack of preparedness by attributing the delays to outdated copper wiring and insufficient fiber optic upgrades. Ingraham challenges the administration's blame-shifting, asserting, "when it's happening on your watch, you are responsible," and calls for concrete solutions rather than deflecting blame.

8. Concluding Insights and Call to Action

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts reinforce the theme of accountability, both in media and government. Ben Shapiro encourages listeners to seek truth and demand transparency from their leaders, emphasizing the importance of informed citizenship in preserving democracy. The brothers wrap up with a call to action, urging their audience to stay engaged, hold officials accountable, and support media outlets that prioritize integrity over sensationalism.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ben Shapiro ([00:47]): "Fox News hosts like Jesse Waters are promoting dangerous handling of agencies, which is pathetic and vile."

• Kevin Hassett ([02:52]): "Dr. Fauci lied. At a minimum, he played semantics over the definition of gain of function."

• Anna Paulina Luna ([03:21]): "I will look at doing a criminal referral for those statements. I will do it as soon as I get back to my office."

• Ben Shapiro ([04:57]): "Kevin Hassett is an idiot. He's wrong about everything."

• Josh Hawley ([11:20]): "Donald Trump is turning the country around in 100 short days and that's why they're desperate."

• Anna Paulina Luna ([14:43]): "I cannot wait until voters have an opportunity to say, you took food out of my mouth."

• Laura Ingraham ([15:46]): "When it's happening on your watch, you are responsible. The buck stops with you."

Conclusion

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast masterfully intertwines media critique, political accountability, and economic discourse, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of the current political climate. The Meiselas brothers adeptly dissect complex issues, offering insightful commentary while maintaining an engaging and accessible dialogue. Whether addressing media biases, governmental accountability, or economic policies, the podcast remains a vital source of informed and passionate discussion, reaffirming its status as a cornerstone for millions of supporters advocating for democracy and truth.